JUNIOR Minister for the National Drugs Strategy Eoin Ryan yesterday welcomed a new report by the Health Research Board which shows inroads have been made in addressing Ireland's drug problem. However, he stressed that there was no room for complacency. "I am confident that the 100 actions which are set out in the strategy will continue to yield positive results and make a lasting difference to the lives of those individuals, families and communities who have been affected by drugs," Mr Ryan said. The Drug Misuse Research Division report based on a survey of treatment clinics between 1996 and 2000 provides indicators of emerging trends in drug misuse, he said. [continues 251 words]
Captains of the best traditional music in any town, The Chieftains have revealed that after 37 years on the road they, too, were tempted to indulge in sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll. Acknowledged as the grandpas of traditional Irish music, you don't get only what you see with Paddy Moloney and friends. Contrary to their clean, toe-tapping-performers-by-the-hearth image, the Chieftains have unveiled that they were attracted by the temptations of stardom. In an interview in Hot Press magazine, Bodhran player and singer Kevin Conneff talked about partying with Thin Lizzy front man, the late Phil Lynott, who died when a 10-year heroin habit took its toll. [continues 370 words]
